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Your Muslim Friendly Istanbul guide -Everything you need

Istanbul is one of the most popular destinations for Muslim travellers. Undoubtedly Istanbul is also one of the most Muslim-friendly destinations with proximity to Europe, offering halal food restaurants, great history and amazing places to visit whether it is in Istanbul itself or Turkey in general.

This delightful country will captivate you with its historical architectural beauty; your senses with its delicious cuisine (see Food Bites on pages) and warm your heart by the generosity of the Turkish people.

Immerse yourself into a fantastic journey using all your senses.

Spreading from Europe to Asia, Turkey is the perfect geographical location, acting as a mid-point for the European, Asian and African continents. It has served as a connector between civilisations for centuries.

Istanbul muslim trave guide

Istanbul’s Islamic History

Istanbul’s Islamic History is dated back to the Roman rule from the second millennia BC from King Byzas of Megara. It was ruled by the late Alexander the Great until the 2nd century BC. It remained under the Roman rule of Constantine the Great. During the 6th and 7th centuries, Arabs besieged the entire city.

In 1453 Sultan Nemeth, leader of the Ottoman Turks conquered Constantinople.

After the Ottoman conquered the city, they renamed the whole city to Islambol the capital of the Ottoman Empire.

Ottoman empire

Between the 15th and 16th centuries, sultans started building mosques and public buildings, and it became a significant cultural, political and commercial centre.

The sultans created most of the Islamic places in Turkey that are currently existing up to this day. The name Istanbul was derived from a combination of “Islambol” which means the city of Islam in Turkish and “is tin Polin” which means to the city in Greek.

Up to this day, Istanbul remained to be the commercial and cultural centre of Turkey, and it now has over thirteen million residents.

Muslim-Friendly Istanbul

Istanbul is a cosmopolitan city, welcoming people from diverse backgrounds, making visitors feel at home. It has a European ambience, yet it preserves its deep cultural and religious roots.

With thousands of mosques spread across the city, you can hear the beautiful ‘Adhan’ (call to prayer) throughout the day.

It is one of the most famous touristic cities in the world, with over four million yearly visitors. Istanbul is a culturally rich city with beautiful architecture and centuries of historic sites established by the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires.

Muslim friendly Istanbul travel

Most visitors can find a lot of Islamic things to do in Istanbul that was created years ago by the sultans, which, up to this day, remain relevant. 

When you enter Istanbul, you are at the door of Europe and Asia with only a few steps separating the two continents, amidst history dating back to 300 thousand years.

A mosaic of cultures, religions and civilisations collectively in one place. It is home to some of the most important and beautiful historic sites in the world. It takes only minutes to fall in love with this charming city.

No wonder it is the most visited city in Turkey and for good reasons too.

Top Things to Do in Istanbul as a Muslim Traveller

#1 Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia is one of the most famous historical sites in Istanbul and my opinion one of the most beautiful ones. No Muslim-friendly guide to Istanbul would be complete without visiting and even praying in Hagia Sophia.

Hagia Sophia was commissioned by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian in 537 CE and served as a church until 1453 CE when the Ottomans occupied Istanbul, led by Mehmed the Conqueror, converted the church into a mosque.

It was then secularised almost 500 years later by the late President Ataturk, converting the mosque into a museum due to its historical, religious and architectural significance.

Hagia Sophia Istanbul

Rebuilt three times at the same site, Hagia Sophia houses the museum with an outstanding mosaic and cultural collection.  

It has also opened as a mosque so Muslim travellers in Istanbul can now pray in the mosque as well. 

You will see a mixture of Christian and Islamic traditions, such as the ‘minbar’, where the ‘Imam’ (leader of the local Muslim community) in the centre of Hagia Sophia as well as glimpses of Christian icons revealing themselves through the restoration process.

Hagia Sophia has different opening times during the Summer and Winter, and it is closed to the public on Mondays.

To find out more about this iconic building, visit their website here.

Muslim-friendly holiday in Istanbul with halal travel and a view of Istanbul from the water

#2 Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace is one of the most visited Islamicislamic places in Istanbul and a historic site that served as the primary residence and the administrative headquarters of Ottoman sultans during the 15th and 16th centuries.

If you always wanted to see how the Sultans lived and all the mystery tales surrounding their existence, then a visit to Topkapi Palace is a must!

Topkapi is one of the best-preserved examples of the Ottoman Palaces that we have today and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985. 

The palace was built in a strategic location alongside the ‘Bosphorus’ ( the boundary between Asia and Europe) in 1453 until 1856. Topkapi was not only used as a palace but served as the heart of the Ottoman Empire. 

It was the centre of the administrative affairs where the Council of Ministers met and hosted the Treasury and the Sultan’s university; the most excellent educational institution in higher education at that time.

The palace exhibits the imperial collection of the Ottoman Empire and preserves a vast number of book collections and manuscripts in their library. 

The best way to explore Topkapi and avoid the long wait will be to start with the ‘Harem’.

This is where the Sultan’s personal quarters are situated. Entry is on a first-come, first-serve basis, and they only let in a limited number of people each time.

Then you can continue your exploration through the Treasury where you can see the exhibits of priceless jewels, gold and works of art.

Lastly, enjoy a stroll down the magnificent gardens of the palace and courtyards. The court is open daily except on Tuesdays, and it operates during the Winter and Summer.

You can find more information here.

Muslim-friendly Istanbul with family activities

#4 Galata Tower

The highest and oldest tower in Istanbul, Galata Tower provides a panoramic view of the entire town that gives a glimpse to Istanbul’s old preserved town. It has a balcony that offers a 360-degree view of the whole city. This tower is called “Christea Turris” or “Tower of Christ.”

It is a nine-storey tower that has a restaurant cafe and a nightclub on top where you can stay and enjoy Turkish coffee and Turkish delicacy.

There is one flight of stairs to climb to reach the top. Be aware that queues can be long and the viewing balcony can be overcrowded. 

If you plan to visit Galata Tower, you can book here to avoid a long queue for the ticket.

#5 The Grand Bazaar

It is regarded as one of the largest and oldest shopping centres in the world; The Grand Bazaar has become a shopper’s favourite place.

It has a thriving and lively atmosphere that is lost today in many of the modern shopping malls.

The Grand Bazaar consists of 61 streets with over 3,000 shops employing 26,000 people and has approximately 300,000 daily visitors. It is a great way to spend a day exploring all the stores and what they have to offer.

Everything is up for bartering, and you should never pay full price for anything. The Turkish shop owners in the Grand Bazaar are some of the best salespeople I have met!

You are easily convinced to buy something that you most likely do not need. You can find pretty much anything from European clothes, gold jewellery, Turkish carpets, and souvenirs to accessories.

Do avoid buying imitation designer items and always negotiate your prices. 

The bazaar is open from 9 am to 7 pm except for Sundays and Bank Holidays, and it is within walking distance from Sultan Ahmet Mosque and Sirkeci tram stops.

It is one of the best places to visit in Istanbul for your shopping needs.

#6 Bosphorus Sunset River Cruise

One of the best ways to explore the see the city from the water and my personal favourite is the Bosphorus Cruise.

The cruise gives you the opportunity to see Istanbul and many of the historical sites from the sea, while you are travelling between the European side and the Asian side.

It is there that the Marmara Sea and the Black Sea come together. If you go during sunset, you will be able to see the lights on the Bosphorus Bridge that change colours as well as the beautiful hues of the waterway – ‘Golden Horn’.

halal travel in istanbul -things to do with family

There are many different options when it comes to cruising on the Bosphorus. It can take from a few minutes to a full day.

If you want to cross the Bosphorus, you can use the local ferry that would take you from the European side to the Asian side. If you want a more leisurely experience, then you can have dinner on the cruise and enjoy the city and its picturesque views.

Şehir Hatları, which is the official ferry company of Istanbul, offers a short circle Bosphorus cruise, a full Bosphorus cruise, and a full Bosphorus cruise at night. But make sure to check their website as their availability might change every season. 

#7 Moda Seafront in Kadikoy

Witnessing the sunset in Moda Seafront in Kadikoy is one of the recommended things to do by most locals in Istanbul. Nothing beats Moda Seafront’s three-kilometre waterside park that uncovers the beautiful sunset views of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. 

#8 Enjoy the view of the city

Istanbul has a great city view, and you wouldn’t want to miss it. There was a lot of stuff to do in Turkey, and this is just one of them.

The view of the city in Camlica Hill on the Asian side of Istanbul is beautiful. It is 265 meters above sea level. There are also several restaurants and cafes in Camlica Hill where you can enjoy the view.

muslim friendly things to do in Istanbul - taking a Bosporous cruise

#9 Experience Nightlife in Istanbul

Istanbul is known to be the city that never sleeps. It is because Istanbul maintained to keep the entire city alive at night. Taksim Square and Istiklal street are just some of the most popular places where to enjoy the nightlife in Istanbul fully.

There are numerous restaurants, and coffee shops to people watch. 

#10 Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour

Experience touring the entire city of Istanbul with an open-topped double-decker bus that goes around every popular location in Istanbul, and it goes through different districts that are rich in history.

One of the family-friendly activities in Istanbul that an entire family would love and is excellent, especially if you have young children who get tired. 

You can book a ticket here.

Halal holiday in Turkey Istanbul, MuslimTravelGirl
the grand bazaar

#11 Shopping in Istanbul

Istanbul is the capital of fashion in Turkey, that is why their shopping centres are all over the city. 

Istinye Park is one of the travellers most recommended shopping centres. They have the most high-end brands that usually are located in the United States. Tight on budget? Then you can count on Zorlu Center.

It may look expensive from its building structure, but this shopping centre also caters to clients who are tight on budget with their collection of different sellers who offer good quality clothes at a price that you can afford. High-end brands are also available there. 

Aqua Florya Alisveris Merkezi is also a shopping centre that you can drop by.

They have lots of high-end international brands that you might have seen in your country. They are also known for having a list of reputable jewellery brand sellers. 

Enjoy The Bosphorus Cruise

İstanbul Kart 

Tip: Make sure you purchase IstanbulKart, which is available in the metro station’s machine, tram stops, and ferry piers. It is a transit card that will give you more time when riding public transportation.

You can check it out here. 

Mosques To Visit in Istanbul

#1 Sultan Ahmet Mosque

The Sultan Ahmet Mosque or popularly known as the ‘Blue Mosque’, due to the blue tiles of its interior, leaves the visitor in wonder.

It is one of the most popular and well-known mosques in Istanbul today, and it is located in the Sultan Ahmet vicinity, which is only steps away from Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar.

Sultan Ahmet built the mosque from 1609 to 1616, and today it can facilitate up to 10,000 worshipers. Just outside the mosque, there is a resting area, and I would highly recommend it for you to relax and enjoy the view of its exterior, before admiring the beautifully decorated interior.

muslim0friendly things to do with family

In 2006, Pope Benedict XVI visited the Sultan Ahmet Mosque during his visit to Turkey which marked only the second Papal to visit, in the history, a Muslim place of worship. The mosque is also a museum where many tourists can enter and visit during non-prayer times.

As with any other mosque etiquettes, the appropriate dress code of long sleeves and long skirts is advisable. Scarves and skirts are also available to borrow and are free of charge at the entrance of the mosque on a first-come, first-serve basis.

You can find more information here.

#2 Süleymaniye Mosque

The Süleymaniye is the most magnificent mosque ever built in Istanbul. It was constructed under the order of Sultan Suleiman, who’s is “The Magnificent”. This mosque was one of the most important mosques during the Ottoman era as it holds a lot for Turkish Islamic history and culture.

The four minarets and ten series represent that Suleiman was the fourth Osmanli Sultan and the 10th Sultan after the establishment of the Empire. The mosque and its surrounding buildings were designed by Mimar Sinan, who is one of the most famous architects during the Ottoman era. 

The mosque gives an austere atmosphere but surely mesmerises its visitors for its interior design features. It is the largest mosque in Istanbul with four minarets. The tombs of Suleiman, his wife, and Imam Sinan are found within the compound.

You can book your visit here.

#3 Yeni Cami (New Mosque)

Its name suggests that it might be the newest mosque built in Istanbul today in 1663. This historic mosque holds different events that almost left it into ashes. In 1597, Safiye Sultan, who was the wife of Sultan Murad III, ordered its construction.

However, due to political issues, the construction halted halfway. In 1660 the mosque burned into ashes after a fire broke out.

In the same year, imperial architect Mustafa Aga then suggested finishing the construction as a work of righteousness. Today, Yeni Cami is now one of the most visited mosques of Istanbul.

#4 Sehzade Mosque

Sehzade Mosque is as Sinan’s first masterpiece of Classical Ottoman architecture. Sehzade Mosque or “Prince’s Mosque” as called by many, has a remarkable design with a hint of elaborate patterns, not typical for mosques. Aside from the mosque it also has a mausoleum of Prince Mehmed, two madrasahs, shared kitchen, and a travellers inn.

Halal Restaurants in Istanbul

Halal food in Istanbul is definitely not hard to find as the majority of the population are Muslims, so you will definitely not go hungry. 

Here are some of our favourite halal restaurants in Istanbul: 

#1 Bitlis

This is one of Istanbul’s most popular halal restaurants that specialises in barbecue. All the meat they use are halal, and they are vegetarian friendly. 

Address: Hocapasa Mah. Hocapasa Camii Sok. No:2/B Sirkeci-Fatih, Istanbul Turkey

#2 Ziya Sark Sofrasi

They offer one of the best kebab lahmacuns in the city that is well-loved by many locals and tourists. They are vegetarian friendly and offer meals for lunch and dinner. They accept reservations, major credit card and other digital payments. What’s great is they also have free wifi to update your friends or loved ones about your vacation.

Address: Hocapasa Mah. Hocapasa Camii Sok. No: 15/A Fatih-Sirkeci, Istanbul 34110 Turkey

#3 Mesopotamian Terrace Restaurant

The restaurant is in the heart of Istanbul, Sultanahmet. They offer the Mediterranean, Turkish, and Middle Eastern cuisine. People with special diets are welcome since they have vegetarian, gluten-free, and vegan options. You may enjoy the view of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia while eating here.

Address: Akbiyik Cd, Kutlugun Sk. No.23 Sultanahmet, Istanbul 34400 Turkey

#4 Sirin Kofte 

They can serve breakfast up to late-night snacks so whenever you feel like eating, you can always visit them. They serve Mediterranean cuisine at a low price. They are also vegetarian and vegan friendly. 

Address: Muradiye Cad. Vezir Cikmazi Sok. No:5 Fatih Sirkeci, Istanbul Turkey

Nusr- Et steak cooking in Istanbul Photo credit: The Point Chaser

#5 Nusr-Et Steakhouse Sandal Bedesteni

The famous Salt Bae restaurant in the Grand Bazaar of Istanbul is a place you should visit. They serve high-quality steaks, and the show is worth a visit at least once.

We usually take the steak to share that they cook in front of you and then baklava with ice-cream, which is my husbands favourite. They also have hamburger and fries, and different kind of dessert to pair with their steak.

It is located in Grand Bazaar so it would be easy to eat after a long day of shopping. Dropping by after a long trip to Istanbul would surely make everyone’s tummy happy.

When your friends are lucky enough to get served by Saltbae himself. Photo credit Ariana The Point Chaser

Address: Sandal Bedesteni, Nuru Osmaniye Cd Fatih, Istanbul 34120 Turkey

Accommodation in Istanbul 

Istanbul has some beautiful hotels and accommodation options for all kinds of budgets. From super luxurious hotels overlooking Bosphorus to some smaller boutique hotels in the Sultanahmet area and Airbnbs all around the city, this place has it all.

Generally speaking, Istanbul offers an excellent value even for 5-star hotels, but you can find 3 and 4 start from as little as £20 a night. 

It is a halal-friendly hotel that offers Islamic hotel design, and they only serve halal food within all their clients. Their indoor pool, spa, spa centre are all for ladies only, and they assure 100% privacy. They also have exclusive resorts for men that they can enjoy. It is a popular thermal spa and wellness hotel located in the outskirts of Istanbul. 

For flights, check out the best prices on Momondo.

Making the Most of Istanbul

Exploring

The best way to explore Istanbul is on foot or the tourist-friendly “tram”. It is a budget-friendly and convenient transport to choose while travelling from the airport to the majority of the historical sites in Istanbul.

If you are short of time and would like to make the most of your visit, I would recommend using one of the tour bus companies. It will cost you a little extra, but you have the opportunity to listen to some of the city’s historical narrative, as well as see some of the sites from the tour bus.

You can always hop on and off and explore anything that might interest you in detail.

Ortakoy mosque

Museums

Depending on how many museums and places you would like to visit during your stay in Istanbul, I would recommend for you to purchase the ‘Istanbul Museum Pass’ which can save you a lot of money and time. 

Buying the pass is easy, and it gives you access to the museums for three to five days. Besides, the pass helps you skip the ticket queues, which can be hard at the best touristic sites. For more information visit here

Frauds

Even though Istanbul is a relatively safe city with regards to criminal activity, it is worth knowing that it is famous for its frauds. 

As with any popular tourist destination, you should always take care of your personal belongings and never leave them unattended. 

Pickpocketing is something you can often see in Istanbul, and it is highly advisable to keep your phone or money in your front pockets. It is also advisable for you to stay clear from people who would approach you while on the streets, offering you guidance or services without you initiating it.

Overall

Istanbul is undoubtedly one of the most visited and Muslim-friendly destinations in the world. It offers halal food, history and in general Turkey a great beach gateway with private hotels and women-only facilities. 

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